Hennepin County, Minnesota sent this bulletin at 03/05/2026 04:28 PM CST
March 2026
Greetings! We hope our newsletter serves as a resource for staying connected to Hennepin County activities and staying updated on county news and services.
As always, please reach out with questions, comments, or to learn more about how to get involved.
As co-chair of the county’s Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) Committee alongside Commissioner Lunde, I help lead and coordinate our county’s legislative advocacy at the State Capitol. So far since Session began a few weeks ago, I have been actively fighting for critical and urgent support to expand funding sources for our hospital system and essential services like rental assistance to ensure services remain stable, accessible, and sufficient. When I testify before the legislature, I am there to advocate for the resources our communities need so our institutions can continue serving residents without delay or a decline in quality, especially as federal disinvestment places devastating pressure on local systems.
Advocacy at the State Capitol
On February 18th, I testified before the Minnesota House Housing Finance and Policy committee on the importance and urgency of Rep. Kozlowski’s (08B) HF 3403 - Onetime emergency rental assistance aid for counties and Tribal governments. It’s critical to prevent evictions in this moment when rising costs and a federal occupation are hurting people across the state.
On February 25th, I testified in the Minnesota Senate Health and Human Services committee where I provided a financial update on the Hennepin Healthcare System. Cuts to healthcare are having a drastic impact on the financial stability of our hospital that is visited by tens of thousands of Minnesotans in and outside of Hennepin every year.
Hennepin Healthcare is a Level I adult and pediatric trauma center, a teaching hospital, and the largest Medicaid provider system in Minnesota.
Centering residents in the county's federal response
Learn how Hennepin County services are accessible and can help you and your neighbors through the federal immigration enforcement surge and drop off through Operation Reconnect. County federal response | Hennepin County
Eligible households can reconnect to services:
Cope: mobile crisis response
Serves anyone in Hennepin County who needs an urgent mental health response. Cope has bilingual and bicultural staff available 24/7 for face-to-face, phone, and video visits and uses interpreters when needed. Learn more about Cope: mobile crisis response.
Provides legal help to people experiencing poverty in civil cases. We advocate for our clients’ rights and provide legal services in several different areas including immigration.
Engagement with us is confidential. We do not share information outside Adult Representation Services without client consent.
We offer help in multiple languages. Call Office of Multicultural Services: 612-348-2193.
Elevate Hennepin
Independent restaurants are essential to the vitality of our neighborhoods, and many are struggling to survive in the wake of the federal immigration enforcement surge.
Elevate Hennepin has compiled a list of financial resources for our small businesses impacted by recent events to apply and receive support. Operation Metro Surge economically destabilized so many small businesses, especially restaurants Countywide and, especially, in the 4th District.
When you get behind on rent, there are several steps that have to be taken between the first missed payment and being removed from your home.
30-Day Notice
You must be given proper written notice, at least 30 days before your landlord can file papers with the court. This notice must include information about legal help and rental assistance. This is not an eviction; you are not being forced to leave at this stage.
After 30 days
The landlord files an eviction complaint with the court. The court will schedule a hearing.
The court will send a summons to the tenant 7-14 days before scheduled hearing.
At Housing Court for the hearing, the case will either be settled or will go to trial in front of a referee or judge.
Hennepin County’s no-cost legal representation, Adult Representation Services (ARS), is available to all low-income tenants with an eviction filing.
Residents with an upcoming housing court hearing have at least two options available to them:
A remote hearing can be requested, per a statewide “Remote & In-Person Hearings” policy, by filing a letter with the court; and/or
A resident’s attorney (whether ARS or otherwise) can attend housing court hearings without the resident present, so long as the resident has consulted with their attorney, prior to the court hearing.
If the tenant loses the trial or does not follow the terms of settlement, a “writ of recovery” is issued. This is the official eviction.
Valentine’s Day weddings brighten the Government Center
Every Valentine’s Day, the Hennepin County Government Center transforms into a place of celebration as couples gather to say, “I do.” This year carried a special twist: ceremonies were held on February 13, adding a playful note to a cherished tradition.
Since its beginning in 2013, this event has become more than a festive occasion — it’s a symbol of enduring love and community. Over the past 13 years, more than 300 couples have exchanged vows during this annual celebration, making it a beloved ritual for Hennepin County.
Ceremonies take place along the scenic bridges of the Government Center, where district court judges volunteer their time to officiate. For some, this service has become a tradition of its own. One judge reflected, “I’ve been doing these weddings for seven years now and it’s an honor to be part of so many love stories.” For another judge, this year marked her first time officiating, a meaningful step into a tradition that continues to grow.
This year, 19 couples pledged their love surrounded by music, sunlight, and the warmth of family and friends — a scene that echoes the joy of countless ceremonies before it.
The event is a collaboration between Hennepin County and the Fourth Judicial District, offering free weddings to couples on Valentine’s Day. Behind the scenes, careful planning and teamwork between county and court staff ensure this tradition thrives year after year. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the judges and employees who keep this celebration going year after year.
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced the office has created the Transparency and Accountability Project (TAP) in the wake of Operation Metro Surge.
TAP’s purpose is to collect and assess evidence submitted by the public of potentially unlawful behavior by federal agents. It is staffed by HCAO prosecutors and an HCAO civilian investigator.
A new portal for community members to share photos, videos, and descriptions of any incidents that may involve unlawful conduct by federal agents has been created to support TAP. The previous portal for evidence in the Renee Good and Alex Pretti shootings has served its purpose and been closed.
Investigation and prosecution of federal agents present significant challenges and the HCAO must be prepared to litigate those challenges prior to filing charges. This will lead to a longer charging timeline than is typical for this office.
Regulation of face coverings in Hennepin County facilities
Last month, I passed a BAR effective immediately prohibiting face coverings by law enforcement that conceals their identity when on county property. The impending drawdown of ICE agents from Minnesota has not changed the violent nature of their presence.
It was a joy to co-host a gathering at Sabathani Community Center with Ayada Leads. The goal was to connect neighbors over good food (thank you Angelea’s Soul Food Kitchen!). We had a meaningful session on breathing and emotional regulation led by Jamila Keisar.
Seward Neighborhood Group S.T.A.N.D. event
The Seward Neighborhood Group (SNG) hosted a amazing event called Solidarity, Truth, Action, and Neighborhood Defense (S.T.A.N.D). Alongside Council Vice President Osman, Council Minority Leader Wonsley, and State Representative Samantha Sencer-Mura, we provided updates about the federal occupation and ways neighbors can support each other.
We shared resources on access to rental assistance and my call to immediately cease Whipple’s detention center following my visit there.
Matthews Park Gymnasium - February 11th, 2026
Bancroft Neighborhood Sunday Potlucks
In Minnesota, we come together in love and protection, we show the world what caring for each other looks like through action. I had the opportunity to spend Sunday afternoons with Bancroft Neighborhood at their weekly potluck. The fight isn't over and as long as we have each other, we win.
MHR Seward CSP
Saturdays are for filling up on joy! First stop, the first annual art sale at MHR Seward CSP!! Got some beautiful handmade goods, met some amazing people and got to check out my Black History Month spotlight!
"Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that"
I spent my Saturday afternoon full of love with neighbors from all over at Powderhorn Park for the Kaleidoscope of Love Art Mobilization! More than a thousand of us filled the Park to send a message of love, hope, joy and resistance. A living butterfly.
I'm so proud to call Minnesota and the Southside my home. Loved seeing Georgia Fort and of course the joyful sound of Brass Solidarity.
Congresswoman Omar Annual Iftar
I spent my Saturday evening at our beloved Congresswoman's annual Iftar at Brian Coyle. A beautiful evening of good food and good company. Thank you Representative Ilhan Omar (MN-05) for bringing community together and for your continued fight for the fifth.
Uptown Vail Community
In a 100 year old home on W. 36th Street lives Vail Communities Uptown Clubhouse. Yesterday, I had the chance to tour, share a meal and answer questions from the incredible people who drop in daily.
The Clubhouse is part of a network of clubhouses internationally that provide dignity, a sense of purpose, community and service to people living with mental illness. Today I heard many stories, a really good joke and the importance of communities like Vail to stay a core part of uplifting humanity and changing lives.
So grateful to the staff and all the folks I met today for the great work you're doing, everyday, to keep people whole, break the stigma and promote peace of mind and stability.
At this year’s National Association of Counties legislative conference in DC, I had the pleasure of chairing the Community Economic and Workforce Development policy steering committee once again. I was also appointed to the Healthy Counties Innovation Council.
Day 1
Within the CEWD committee, our panelists from Counties for a Guaranteed Income and the Bipartisan Policy Center discussed how guaranteed income can reduce the strain on county emergency services, healthcare and justice system involvement.
Emily Wielk - Senior Policy Analyst, Bipartisan Policy Center
Hon. Toni Preckwinkle - President, Cook County, Ill.
Hon. Ryan Mello - County Executive, Pierce County, Wash.
Hon. Toni Carter - Former Commissioner, Ramsey County, Minn.
Day 2
I facilitated a workshop on "Continuum of Care Landscape: Examining Shifts in Homelessness Response", outlining the shifts in homelessness response.
Day 3
I provided an update to the NACo Board of Directors on the proposed resolutions from my policy steering committee.
My team closed out the conference with a wonderful reception at the Library of Congress.
When: Friday, March 6th & 20th from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Saturday, March 28th (2 PM - 4 PM) & Monday, March 30th (3 PM - 5 PM)
Where: Nokomis Library; 5100 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417
For youth and families. Drop in and design your own buttons! We will provide the art supplies, old books and magazines, and the buttons – just bring your own ideas and get creative!
Roosevelt Crafternoon
When: Friday, March 6th & 20th from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Saturday, March 28th (2 PM - 4 PM) & Monday, March 30th (3 PM - 5 PM)
Where: Roosevelt Library; 4026 S 28th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406
We encourage you to bring your current projects. Any and all portable crafts with library-safe materials are welcome. Don’t have a current project or any crafting supplies? Roosevelt Library will have a variety of materials available for you to use.
Community Chess Day
When: Saturday, March 7th from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Every Wednesday through April 11th
Where: Hosmer Library; 347 E 36th St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Welcome youth and young adults who want to play chess! Play for fun and learn chess basics from chess teachers and mentors. All levels are encouraged to attend, and new players will be offered help to learn the rules and get started. All equipment provided.
The program is offered through a partnership with PLEDGE, a local mentorship organization. PLEDGE uses chess to build relationships and promote strategic thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, and other important skills.
Seed Circles
When: Tuesday, March 10th from 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Where: Hosmer Library; 347 E 36th St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Help maintain the Community Seed Library! Share stories, meet neighbors, and sort seed donations together. Collaborator: Plant-Grow-Share (Central Area Neighborhood Development Organization).
STEAM Activity
When: Wednesday, March 11th from 5:00 - 6:00 PM
Every Wednesday at Franklin
Where: Franklin Library; 1314 E Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404
Drop in for fun and creative STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) experiments and projects! Materials provided.
Led by Franklin Library’s STEAM Squad.
Seed Sorting Party
When: Wednesday, February 11th & 18th from 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Every Wednesday (currently) through May at Nokomis
Where: Nokomis Library; 5100 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417
Help sort and label donated seeds for the Nokomis Community Seed Library! A seed library is a collection of community-donated seeds that can be borrowed from the library and planted at home. Volunteer while learning more about seed saving and gardening. Collaborator: Seed Sages.
Spring Bloom: Paint Pour Coasters
When: Saturday, March 14th from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: Nokomis Library; 5100 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417
When: Tuesday, March 31st from 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Where: Arvonne Fraser; 1222 4th St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
Create a beautiful ceramic coaster using the acrylic paint pouring method. Participants will learn how to mix paints to the right consistency and use "dirty pour" or "flip cup" techniques to create mesmerizing abstract patterns that evoke gardens in bloom and flowing spring rivers.
We'll use a vibrant palette of pinks, yellows, soft greens, and sky blues to capture the energy of the season. Painted coasters will be cured and sealed offsite by instructor.
Return to the library two weeks after the event to pick up your final pieces. Materials provided.
Children under age 10 may need adult assistance. Collaborator: Make with Sam. This program is funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
East Lake Vegan Recipe Club
When:Tuesday, March 17th for6:30pm–7:30pm
Where: East Lake Library; 2727 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406
If you are curious about vegan cooking, this virtual club is for you! Each month participants make recipes from popular cookbooks prior to meeting, then share their reflections with the group. Novice to expert cooks are welcome, as are interested non-cooks.
Additional information, including the Zoom meeting link and downloadable recipes, is available on the events page of the Compassionate Action for Animals website.
This program is offered by East Lake Library in partnership with Compassionate Action for Animals.
Short Story Club
When: Tuesday, March 17th from 6:30 - 7:30 PM
Where: Arvonne Fraser; 1222 4th St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
Whether you enjoy short fiction, would like to explore, or just don't have time to read a full novel, join us to discuss short stories. We'll read a variety of genres and authors. Copies available at service desk.
Letter Writing Social Hour
When: Saturday, March 21st from 1:00 - 2:30 PM
Where: Arvonne Fraser; 1222 4th St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
Suffering from screen fatigue?Rediscover vintage social media with us and establish a fun, new writing practice! We’ll supply stickers, stationery, neighborhood postcards, fun pens, letter-writing inspiration, and more! Bring an address, a friend, or just yourself.
Make a Textured Tile: 3D Printed Rollers & Clay Creations
When: Saturday, March 28th from 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Where: East Lake Library; 2727 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Get hands-on with clay and create unique textured tiles! Experiment with 3D printed rollers to imprint fascinating patterns and designs. This sensory adventure encourages exploration, creativity, and playful fun with air-dry clay. Materials provided. Children under age 10 may need adult assistance. Collaborator: Make with Sam. This program is funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
NorthPoint is here to partner with you. If you cannot come in-person, you have options:
We offer phone and video visits for most types of appointments. Call 612-543-2500 to check your options.
Need a prescription? Send someone to our Pharmacy to pick it up for you. They'll need payment, your date of birth, and your address.
Need groceries? Send someone to our Food Shelf to pick them up for you. They'll need the number of people who live in your home.
If you have questions or need additional assistance, call 612-543-2500
Hennepin Healthcare
Your health and safety are very important to us.
Hennepin Healthcare is committed to providing safe, high-quality care to everyone—regardless of immigration status. Your privacy is protected, and we want you to feel safe seeking the care you need.
If you are feeling sick, experiencing symptoms, or have a scheduled appointment, please come to the hospital for care—even if you are feeling afraid or uncertain. Our priority is your health and well-being.
Hospitals exist to provide medical care to everyone who needs it. Our staff are focused on treating patients with dignity, respect, and compassion, regardless of background or personal circumstances. Seeking medical care when you need it can prevent serious illness and help keep you and your loved ones safe.
Please consider making a donation to the Twin Cities ICE Relief Fund, as an additional way to contribute directly to the economic stabilization and recovery of neighbors.
The newly-launched Twin Cities ICE Relief Fund is a partnership between Neighbors Helping Neighbors, a trusted mutual aid network, and Family Housing Fund, a longstanding 501(c)(3) housing stability nonprofit. It is a Minneapolis-citywide rent fund that will pay neighbors directly. All donations will be tax deductible, and all processes have undergone thorough legal review.
The Twin Cities ICE Relief Fund has set the bold goal of raising $1.3 million, to help 1,000 families pay their rent. Thank you in advance for any amount you can give.
Free Tax Preparation at Pillsbury Creative Commons
By appointment only (no walk-ins)
AARP is offering free tax preparation assistance at the Pillsbury Creative Commons during this tax season.
Dates: Monday, February 2 – Monday, April 13
Days: Mondays & Wednesdays
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location:
Pillsbury Creative Commons (PCC) – New Building
3529 Chicago Ave S, Minneapolis
Additional Free Tax Preparations
You may qualify for free tax return preparation through Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or AARP Tax-Aide. These programs help prepare federal and state income tax and property tax refund returns.
Use the search tool on this page to find tax sites near you, hours, and contact information. You can also:
Call our automated tax site locator line at 651-297-3724 or 1-800-657-3989
You may also qualify to file your own income tax return electronically at no cost. For details, see Free Electronic Filing.
Claim the Renter's Credit on Your Income Tax Return
If you are a renter, you may be eligible to claim the Renter's Credit as part of your Minnesota Individual Income Tax return (Form M1). To get the credit, you must provide Certificate of Rent Paid information when filing your income tax return. The credit decreases how much you owe or increases your refund.
Nokomis East Business Association (NEBA) - Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund (ERAF)
When: Wednesday, March 11th from 5:00 - 6:30 PM
Where: McDonald's Liquor & Wine, Lower Level
5010 S 34th Ave Minneapolis, MN 55417
Do you own or operate a small business? Are you an independent contractor or have a home-based business? You or your employee may qualify for disability accommodation funds! You do not have to be a member to attend this short and low-commitment event. Let’s learn together! RSVP for limited seating.
The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund (ERAF) creates a central fund where small to mid-sized Minnesota employers can request reimbursement for expenses related to providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants and employees with disabilities. The ERAF's purpose is to encourage employment of people with disabilities by reducing any perceived or real financial barriers.
When the snow melts, all the trash, oil residue, pet waste, and de-icing salt that built up over months gets mobilized and carried into storm drains. That early “first flush” of runoff often contains some of the highest pollutant concentrations of the year, and once it enters the storm sewer system, it flows untreated to nearby lakes and rivers.
Road salt is a big part of the problem. Chloride doesn’t break down or evaporate; once it dissolves, it stays in the water. Elevated chloride levels are toxic to fish and aquatic insects, and the EPA identifies stormwater runoff as a leading source of surface water pollution nationwide. Even small amounts add up. Just one teaspoon of salt permanently pollutes five gallons of water. But salt isn’t the only issue. Stormwater runoff is a leading source of surface water pollution nationwide, carrying sediment, nutrients, bacteria, litter, and automotive fluids into waterways.
The good news is this is a water quality challenge where everyday habits make a measurable difference.
If you see salt sitting on dry pavement, it isn’t working anymore. Salt only melts ice when it dissolves into liquid. On dry ground, it’s just waiting to wash away. Take a few minutes to sweep it up and save it for next winter. While you’re outside, pick up litter along your curb, clear debris from the storm drain near your home, and make sure pet waste is disposed of properly before the next rain. Even brushing excess grass clippings back onto your lawn keeps nutrients out of the street.
Earth Day cleanups matter. But what protects water most is the small, repeated actions during spring thaw that stop pollution before it starts moving downstream.
Where: Sabathani Community Center; 310 E 38th St, Minneapolis, MN
A celebration of Twin Cities talent, culture, and collaboration.
This one-night variety showcase brings together standout artists from Snapped Open Mic and Sabathani Community Center, highlighting the depth and diversity of our local creative scene.
Expect powerful performances from singers, rappers, musicians, dancers, and more — all backed by the Snapped House Band and BGVs for a fully live, high-energy experience.
More than a show, The Highlight is about community, excellence, and giving artists a stage to shine. Come for the music, stay for the connection, and witness what happens when worlds collide in the best way.
Stand with immigrant women and girls! Join the fight against ICE terror and gender-based violence! Demand trans liberation and abortion access for all! We deserve to live in a world where our bodies aren’t legislated and policed, where we can raise our children in dignity and safety—a world free from fear!
Upcoming Lake Nokomis shoreline improvements Open House
Phase 2 of long-term plan to naturalize shoreline and improve habitat scheduled to begin late summer/early fall
When: Wednesday, March 18th, 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Where: Lake Nokomis Community Center, 2401 E Minnehaha Parkway.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is planning a second phase of shoreline improvements around Lake Nokomis this year! Learn more about this at an Open House.
In 2017 Phase 1 shoreline improvements converted approximately one-third of the shoreline from mowed turf to naturalized landscape. Work is expected to begin on Phase 2 of the restoration in late summer/early fall 2026.
Phase 2 shoreline work will expand on that by adding another section of restored shoreline, further improving habitat for both aquatic and upland animal species by stabilizing erosion, removing invasive plants, and creating a functional continuum of shoreline zones. This phase of improvements will be constructed primarily along the western and southwestern shoreline of the lake, from the ordinary high-water elevation to the edge of the walking path.
Completion of this second phase would ensure naturalization of a total of approximately 65% of this urban lakeshore. Another project goal will be to incorporate protected sandy nesting areas that appeal to softshell species, and basking amenities for turtles.
Spring Egg Hunts and Parties - Saturday, March 28th
Location: McRae Park; 906 E 47th St, Minneapolis, MN 55407
$15 resident/$22.50 non-resident
Midtown Farmers Market (MFM) Winter Market
When: March 29th from 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Where: Market Plaza – 2225 East Lake Street, Minneapolis, 55407
Hiawatha Light Rail Station at Lake Street & Midtown
We’ve been hard at work gearing up for the market season, and we have something super special planned for you! Save the date for our annual Midtown Farmers Market Fundraiser brunch and pop-up winter/spring market.
This year, we’re inviting your favorite vendors to a one-of-a-kind pop-up market, all in support of the vitality of our beloved MFM. Not only that, we’re pulling in incredible food catered by nationally famous Chef Diane Moua of Diane’s Place, as well as talents from the up-and-coming local sibling band, Nunnabove who opened for Chaka Khan and Boyz II Men at the State Fair. Check out their music video below.
Once the tickets go live, you’ll be the first to know in this newsletter, so keep an eye out. You won’t want to miss this.
Photo credit to Chris Juhn Photography - This image was taken in 2021 after the trial of Derek Chauvin on April 20th. Derek Chauvin was found guilty for killing George Floyd.
Reverend Jesse Jackson spent his lifetime standing for justice, dignity, and opportunity for all. From the front lines of the Civil Rights Movement to decades of social, economic, and educational justice advocacy, his voice has challenged injustice and inspired hope across generations.
Guided by faith and courage, Rev. Jackson reminded the world that progress comes when ordinary people refuse to give up on equality. His legacy is not only in the speeches he delivered, but in the doors he helped open for millions.
